Public acceptance and perceptions of alternative water sources: a comparative study in nine locations

Abstract

Public acceptance of recycled water, desalinated water and rainwater is compared across nine international locations: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Norway and United States (specifically in Los Angeles). An online study was conducted in 2012, with 200 participants recruited to be representative of their respective location (1800 in total). The study investigated participants’ intended use of and perceptions of alternative water sources. Results indicate that respondents clearly differentiate between alternative water sources. Water source preference varied between water use purposes. Significant differences were found between locations in the percentage of respondents willing to use alternative water sources. Additionally the study found significant differences across locations in perceptions held of five water sources.